When I had my 1st shotgun certificate (36 years ago) it took 1 week. Picked up form in local police station, filled it in, told them I was shooting on farm land and waste ground. No problems. MY firearm cert' took 6 days when I applied (1983) Ever since, I have had good results from Bridgend Police (Headquarters) regarding 1-1 variations, adding extra firearms etc.